A farmer and foreign travelers pick tea leaves in Fuding, Fujian province. Some experts say white tea is 'the most natural and healthy' variety in China. [Photos / China Daily] 

"Though mainly for export in the past, white tea is today becoming increasingly popular in the domestic market," said Chen Xinghua, chairman of the Standing Committee of the Fuding City People's Congress and leader of the city's Tea Industry Development Office.

"More and more people are shifting their gaze to white tea, especially that from Fuding," Chen said.

"The city is the only place most suitable for planting Dai-bai and Daffodil Bai tea trees nationwide and white tea here has the best quality.

"This unique geographical advantage not only gives Fuding a competitive edge in the market, but also adds momentum to its economic gains," he said.